The Effects of Video Games

        In this day and age, video games have affected the brains of millions around the world. Although video games may be a way to let out stress, relax, and have fun, they have also negatively impacted many throughout the world. 

       Video games are for the most part, addictive. Addiction is one of the biggest effects that video games have on the individuals that play them. Many young boys in school avoid doing homework since they are too busy playing their favourite video games instead. In a recent documentary I watched about technology and its impact on people, it showed how many young boys and men, even in countries such as Korea, are addicted to playing video games. They stayed in their local arcade not eating nor sleeping and playing for more than 24 hours. This just shows the severity of video games becoming addictive to any age. Not to mention that the extent that the Koreans reached can be threatening and unhealthy to the human body.

     Despite the fact that video games can become an obsession for some, they also have a few benefits. For example, there is absolutely nothing wrong with playing video games after a long day at work or even on game night with buddies. As long as you have nothing more important or essential that has to be done. Some video games, unfortunately not most are actually educational and stimulate the brain for the better. 

    The majority of popular video games nowadays advertise violence to any age. Video games do have ratings, although just like movies people usually pay them no attention. Not only do video games promote violence but most video games sexually exploit women. These are the messages being endorsed to people playing video games and by ignoring ratings such as M for mature 17+ youth and children under age are becoming influenced by sexual themes and illegal violence. Those controversial topics of which can lead to aggressive demeanour and an interest in crimes and violence. 

   Fortunately, the news have done a great job showing the negative impacts of video games and the chance of addiction that comes with playing. Although many people who love video games do not care much for what they say. In my opinion, I feel that youth (young men) especially in the ages that range from 15-20 years old are the ones that are affected/play video games the most. In these ages young men are usually in high school - college/university. During these crucial times in life, video games including other forms in the technology field may become the number one distraction. Distracting the young men from the most important time in education can affect many of their lives for worse. 

   Adults in their late 20s and above do play video games as do kids under 15 but I think that the level of addiction is high in youth. Most people above the age of 20 are labeled child-like when they still play video games. Those scenarios are also shown in TV comedies as men in their 20s-30s still living in their parents house and addicted to video games. Those men are depicted as a laughing stock.

   All in all, I believe that video games have more of a negative impact than a positive one. As long as you have self control I think that video games are a fun way to relax and enjoy time alone or even with friends. I also believe that obeying ratings and video games guidelines are crucial. Knowing that there is a chance of addiction that comes with video gaming is necessary. There are some great and amusing video games out there that appeal to any and everyone. Just remember to choose and play wisely.

http://www.drphil.com/articles/article/297